Buenos Aires, Argentina safe?

Fridge

My friends and I are thinking of going to Argentina next year, probably concentrating on Buenos Aires. They say it's supposed to be the safest of the South American countries, but then a few other people have told me it's really dangerous, and people get kidnapped a lot.

Now I know evreywhere is dangerous, and it depends on what areas you go to, but if anyone has been there and to surrounding countries, how does it compare, safety-wise?

And any other tips, on what to see etc?

PunyHuman

Buenos Aires is as safe as any city in Europe. Sure, there are bad areas (e.g. La Boca) to which you wouldn't be advised to go after dark, but apart from that it's fine. I spent a month travelling alone in Argentina last year and I wasn't kidnapped even once.

Comparatively, I found Brazil to be more dangerous because I was mugged, but that seems almost to be an essential part of the Rio experience. Also, Paraguay felt a bit dodgy because of all the prostitutes. Still loved both of those places though.

In terms of recommendations, pick up a guidebook or search the forums here.

Fridge

PunyHuman wrote:

I spent a month travelling alone in Argentina last year and I wasn't kidnapped even once.

Not even once? Wow! Ok thanks for that. Feel much better about going there now. Off to get guidebook!